University of Montana research remains critical even as first COVID vaccines released

Even as coronavirus vaccinations slowly pick up speed across the state and nationwide, researchers at the University of Montana continue to learn more about the virus, and prepare for the next pandemic.

“We’re in a continuous hiring phase. We’ve gone from 15 to 45 scientists in about the last four years and we’re continuing to grow in and add new positions and buy new equipment that’s needed for the vaccine research programs as they advance from a preclinical stage to a clinical-stage,” said UM Center for Transitional Medicine Director Dr. Jay Evans.